The JORVIK Viking Festival is Almost Here

Raise your drinking horns - the annual JORVIK Viking Festival is just around the corner. Running from 15th -23rd February, the city of York will celebrate it’s Norse heritage in true Viking style.

Often described as bloodthirsty invaders, it’s fair to say the Vikings were fearless warriors. However they were also skilled seaman, established traders and accomplished explorers, travelling as far as Russia and the Americas. This year the annual 36th Viking festival celebrates the “Voyages of the Vikings” - and you are invited to join the revelry.

The JORVIK Viking festival is credited with being the largest of its kind in Europe. You will find a wide and varied programme of events on offer - designed to provide a fascinating glimpse into how the mighty Vikings lived their lives back in the 9th century. Stroll around the markets and marvel at the living history encampments. Participate in a workshop or two and witness the spectacle of a thrilling combat enactment.

There’s always plenty going on in York, but during the Viking Festival there’s even more to enjoy! With so much to see and do visitors to the city might want to consider booking accommodation to make the most of their time. There are plenty of great places to stay.

Celebrate the Viking Festival With Axe Throwing and Great Food!

Why not commemorate the Viking Festival with a unique event? Throw like a viking at unique axe-throwing venue The Hilt and then eat (and drink) like a king at buzzing new bar and kitchen Fancy Hanks.

Throw Like A Viking

Legend has it the Viking phrase “skål” (which is pronounced SKOL, and means cheers) originates from the Viking’s penchant for drinking wine and spirits from the skulls of those they slayed during bloody raids. We don’t advocate this as the best way to toast good fortune and victory - it seems rather extreme! However, we’re pleased to say there is another way you can experience the thrill of being a Viking warrior. Get into the spirit of the festival by mastering a true Viking skill - axe throwing.

The Hilt is situated in the heart of the city, very close to York Minster Cathedral. This unique venue provides wannabe Vikings with the opportunity to get to grips with the exhilarating skill of axe-throwing. Perfect for groups of 2-12 (larger groups can be accommodated on request), The Hilt is the perfect place for a get together with friends, a family outing, celebration, work event, or even a cheeky date night!

Following a safety briefing, experienced coaches will teach you the techniques required to throw like a pro. Try your hand at throwing, and feel the thrill of hitting the wooden target. Once you’ve had sufficient practise you will compete against your fellow warriors to find out who will be crowned the true Viking or Viqueen.

Eat Like a King

Throwing an axe can cause you to work up quite an appetite. So, The Hilt has got together with neighbouring bar and kitchen, Fancy Hanks, to bring you something special. Following your axe throwing session you will head to this brand new establishment (tucked away in the historic streets of the Minster Quarter) for a four course Nordic banquet worthy of any conquering warrior. Your feast will comprise of:

KRÄFTOR MED DILL

Crawfish with Dill served with Fish Roe Sauce & Dill Cream

RAGGMUNK MED BACON

Potato Pancakes topped with Streaky Bacon and Bilberry Jam

KÖTTBULLAR

Meatballs served with Mash Potato & 'White Gravy'

BLÅBÄRSSOPPA & KARDEMUMMABULLAR

Blueberry Soup served with Buttermilk and a Cardamom Roll

Come One and All and Embrace Your Inner Viking

Join us for an evening of axe throwing and Nordic fusion celebrating the York Viking Festival. For just £35 you get to enjoy 75 minutes of indoor axe throwing at The Hilt (including 20 minutes of practice & 40 minutes of fierce competition) - all with trained coaches on hand to guide you. This will be followed by an exquisite four course Nordic fusion-feast at Fancy Hanks.

Sharpen your axes and step this way, it’s time for the Vikings to come out to play!